Los Angeles Rams: Updated Draft Priorities For The 2024 Season
As the Los Angeles Rams have now ended their season, the NFL Draft nears, and they’re now poised to make crucial decisions to enhance their roster. If Les Snead and Co. can hit on another draft class this upcoming cycle it’ll be huge for the team going into next season.
Los Angeles Rams Draft Definite Needs
- Edge Rusher: Securing a top-tier edge rusher is crucial for the Rams. This move in particular will help alleviate some pressure off of Aaron Donald and create a young defensive front altogether.
- Cornerback: Strengthening the cornerback position remains a need, especially given the fact that Witherspoon is a free agent.
Probable Needs
- Offensive Line (Tackle and Center): Enhancements at tackle and center could significantly improve the Rams’ offensive line, offering better protection for Stafford and efficiency in the running game. Havenstein’s successor could be a good move here and an upgrade at center would be a great choice as well.
- Linebacker: The Rams could benefit from adding a linebacker to complement Ernest Jones, giving him a rest off the field shouldn’t mean that their MLB2 is a liability.
Possible Needs
- Wide Receiver: If DeMarcus Robinson isn’t re-signed, adding depth at wide receiver will be important, though not a primary focus.
- Tight End: While not a top priority, adding depth at tight end could provide additional options in the Rams’ offensive scheme. Higbee’s injury complicates this a little bit, but Allen looked solid in his limited reps and we’ve yet to see much of Hopkins.
- Safety: Drafting a developmental safety aligns with the Rams’ strategy of preparing for the future, especially considering the pick as an eventual starter replacement.
- Quarterback: Considering Stafford’s age and injury history, drafting a potential successor or developmental quarterback, like Sam Hartman or Jordan Travis, is a strategic move for the future. Especially when you look at what the Packers did with Jordan Love, although I can’t see them going QB that high, it’s not a bad idea to take a flyer on someone in a later round.
- Running Back: Drafting a running back for depth behind Kyren Williams can be a smart move. It would provide insurance and potentially enhance the Rams’ ground game. They’ve done so in nearly every season since McVay has been head coach and it’s not a bad idea to do it again.
This upcoming draft will likely decide if the Rams are pushed over the hump to contenders, or if they stay at that 9-10 win range. A good job drafting similar to this past season could mean they’re positioned to compete for the Super Bowl, yet again.
